higher criticism

Questions

What does higher criticism mean?

Synonym of historical criticism (“study of received texts, especially the Bible, as historical sources”).

Where does higher criticism come from?

Calque of German höhere Kritik. Originally in contrast to lower criticism (now dated), i.e. textual criticism, the reconstruction of the text itself.

How to pronounce higher criticism

1. Open the pronunciation page — Open the Speakur entry for “higher criticism”.
2. Read the phonetic spelling — Read the IPA spelling () so you know which sounds to aim for.
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4. Repeat and practice — Say “higher criticism” aloud, matching stress and vowels until it feels natural.